BRICS Summit in Delhi Amid Heat and Rain; Monsoon Withdrawal Likely Soon

Key Takeaways:

• Delhi is hosting the 18th BRICS Summit on September 12–13 amid above-normal temperatures and high humidity.
• Delhi recorded a maximum temperature of 36.6°C, while the heat index crossed 40°C during peak afternoon hours.
• Light to moderate rain is most likely over Delhi and adjoining areas between September 14 and 16.
• Clearer skies from September 18 could indicate the beginning of conditions favourable for Monsoon 2026 withdrawal.
• Forecast Validity: Next one week.

Delhi this week finds itself managing two very different kinds of history at once. On one hand, the capital is host to the 18th BRICS Summit, a gathering that has grown far beyond its founding five nations into a broader coalition shaping global conversations on climate, energy and equitable growth. On the other hand, the city's own atmosphere is going through a transition with the slow, uneven, and always retrospective process of monsoon withdrawal.

The BRICS Summit: Members, Theme and Climate Agenda

BRICS originally stood for Brazil, Russia, India, China, and South Africa. Following its expansion, the grouping has retained its familiar acronym while welcoming full member nations including Egypt, Ethiopia, Iran, Indonesia, Saudi Arabia and the UAE — a widening of the table that reflects the growing weight of the Global South in shaping international priorities.

This year's summit, the 18th in the group's history, carries the official theme "Building for Resilience, Innovation, Cooperation and Sustainability." Climate change and sustainability sit at the very centre of the discussions, built on the groundwork laid by preparatory meetings such as the BRICS Environment Ministers Meeting and the Energy Ministers' talks held ahead of the main event.

The agenda reflects concerns that resonate deeply across developing economies: securing critical-mineral supply chains for green technology, unlocking low-cost climate finance, accelerating smart grid energy transitions, strengthening carbon markets, and empowering community-led climate adaptation.

Delhi Weather Around the Summit

Delhi’s temperature peaked at 36.6°C yesterday, more than 3°C above the seasonal average for this time of September. Elevated moisture in the air meant the "feels like" temperature, or heat index, comfortably crossed the 40°C–42°C mark during peak afternoon hours.

The capital city is under heavy security with traffic restrictions in view of the summit, though there has been no citywide shutdown of traffic; movement continues even as certain routes remain restricted.

Looking ahead, light to moderate showers are expected over and around the capital, with the chances of rain highest between 14 and 16 September.

An odd stray shower of brief duration may also occur over the coming Saturday and Sunday, owing to natural irregularities as the weather pattern shifts.

Broad clearance over the region can be expected from 18 September onwards. A noticeable rise in humidity is likely in the days just ahead of the rain, but genuine relief from the scorching heat is expected once the showers move through.

Monsoon 2026 Ready to Withdraw

Even as the heat lingers, Delhi’s monsoon is gradually preparing to withdraw. With the normal withdrawal date set for September 25, the expected mid-September showers followed by clearer skies from September 18 could signal the season’s transition. As winds reverse, moisture and cloud cover decrease, and the monsoon trough shifts away, the capital may see only a few parting showers before the monsoon officially bids farewell.

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